We are dental experts and have complied a list of the most common general dental FAQs for your information.
If you are curious to know more, or need more personalised advice, please give our knowledgeable team a call on 07 987 2825 or visit us at 7/33 Toorea St, Papamoa Beach, Papamoa 3118, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
Having your teeth whitened can be done through many various methods. The scientific evidence shows that professional custom-made take-home whitening trays with a dentist only whitening material is the safest, most predictable and effective way to whiter teeth and a brighter smile.
We accept dental insurances. We are registered for Southern Cross Easy-Claim, NIB and many others. Please check with your provider prior to your appointment as every policy has varying levels of cover. Alternatively we can provide a written quote for you to check with your insurer the extent of your cover after your initial consultation.
The cost of dental treatment varies widely, depending on many factors. We understand cost of dentistry is important to you and believe in transparent, honest pricing and will discuss all fees before treatment. Find our Fees here.
Root canals are a procedure to rescue a dying, infected or badly damaged tooth, allowing the patient to keep it. It involves removing the inflamed/infected nerves from inside the tooth, usually over 2 appointments with local anesthetic, and has a high success rate of over 90%. Teeth requiring root canals often have a deep cavity, or crack, and are already heavily repaired. A crown is usually required to restore them after completion of a successful root canal.
In NZ, performing IV sedation requires dentists to undertake additional training and registration. Dr Jordan is registered with the NZSSD and performs IV sedation or sleep dentistry for his patients who wish to forget they were ever at the dentist. IV sedation is commonly used for any or all of your dental procedures; for some procedures it may even be recommended.
Wisdom teeth are best removed as early as they can be confirmed impacted, usually late teens or early 20s. This ensures a less complex surgery, lower fees, less complications and a faster recovery. Waiting longer can result in pain, infection, more damage to your other teeth and higher risk of surgical complications due to the bodies slower healing. A full x-ray allows us to assess the need for wisdom tooth removal from 15 years of age.
The first step for orthodontic treatment is a discussion around your concerns or goals and the collection of full orthodontic records. This can be done over 2 appointments or at one single visit; the total cost is $300. This includes your diagnosis and a case presentation of your options. After a mutual decision that it is the best time for orthodontic treatment, we can start. Orthodontic treatment usually requires visits to the practice every 4 to 8 weeks over 2 years of active care.
The process starts with a thorough dental examination and medical history alongside 3D x-ray and scan to assess if you are a good candidate for implants. Once deciding on an appropriate plan the implants can be placed. Healing and integration of the implant is highly successful over 98%. Sometimes the teeth can be immediately placed on the implants, while other times you must heal for a 3-to-6-month period before the new implant supported teeth are delivered.
The process for a smile makeover starts with a consultation about your goals and assessment of the current condition of your mouth. Step 2 is to show you what the end result could be either through 3D digital modelling or a trial smile in your mouth. After confirming the plan you can start the transformation with whichever procedures are required to achieve your smile.
Mouth rinses can freshen breath, prevent cavities, reduce gum disease and improve healing. They are not essential for everyone as a regular part of your oral hygiene homecare; brushing and flossing or interdental brushes are more important. Be careful as some rinses can stain your teeth.
Yes. At least once per day. Flossing is excellent at preventing cavities between teeth where the toothbrush cannot fit, as well as freshening the breath. Floss holders can make it easier to reach at the back. Interdental brushes are good for cleaning the plaque away for patients with gum disease or braces but less effective at preventing cavities. You may be best to floss and interdental brush, we can provide you customised advice.
Sensitive teeth can be a sign of underlying problems, it is important to be checked by a dental professional. Sensitive toothpaste can be a great solution for patients who do have more sensitive teeth. There are 2 main brands (Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive) and the way they work is different to each other. Try each one for 4 weeks and continue to use the one that is most effective for you.
It is very important for your toothpaste to contain fluoride to protect your teeth from cavities. Special high fluoride toothpastes can be prescribed by the dentist for patients with high cavity risk. Avoid tartar and whitening toothpastes which can be too rough, damaging your teeth and gums.
Use soft toothbrushes only, never medium or hard as they can damage your gums and teeth. We recommend sonic or electric toothbrushes to most patients as it make the job easier, but a manual toothbrush used correctly can be just as good. Ask us about the modified bass technique.
Regular dental check-ups with x-rays. Excellent oral hygiene homecare, brushing 2-3 times per day and flossing or interdental brushes once per day.
Seek professional dental advice ASAP. In the interim you can try a warm salty mouthrinse, cleaning the area well with brush and flossing, and apply an ice pack to the area. Panadol and Nurofen are the best short term pain medications. If you are unsure, call us on 07 987 2825 for more information.
There are several signs. Some of the most common are: sensitivity to cold/hot food and drinks, discomfort chewing certain foods, bleeding gums when you brush or floss, bad breath or taste, white or brown spots on your teeth. These can all be assessed early to minimise the effect of the potential problem.
Most patients benefit from regular clean and polish every 6 months. This helps prevent new problems developing and extends the lifespan of your natural teeth and existing dental work. Patients with gum disease will usually visit more frequently and some younger patients with excellent oral health yearly.
Our New Patient Comprehensive Examination is $180, including all x-rays. Our recall check-up for existing patients in $130.
Most patients benefit from a routine check-up at least once every 12 months. Depending on your risk factors (age, sugar intake, oral hygiene, previous dental history etc.) you may benefit from more or less frequent visits. We can personalise your maintenance program to ensure you meet your oral health expectations.